When Can You Receive Alimony in Florida?
Divorce is one of the hardest things you will ever go through. Unfortunately, it can also be expensive. You may lose property during the process, and you may also find it difficult to make the transition from living off of two incomes to just one. If you stayed home during the marriage and relied almost entirely on your spouse to support you, it can make things even more difficult.
If divorce will hurt you financially, you may be able to pursue alimony. Spousal support is not always awarded during divorce. A judge will take many factors into consideration when making a decision on the issue. Below, our Orlando spousal support lawyer advises on when you may be able to pursue alimony.
The Length of the Marriage
The length of a marriage is just one factor family law judges will consider, but they will weigh it heavily. The Florida Statutes do not outline a specific amount of time a couple must have been married in order for one spouse to receive alimony. However, the law does define the length of marriages. The classifications are as follows:
- Short-term marriages: Marriages that lasted less than ten years
- Moderate-term marriages: Marriages that lasted between 10 and 20 years
- Long-term marriages: Marriages that lasted more than 20 years
The longer a couple has been married, the more likely it is that one spouse has become accustomed to a certain standard of living they cannot maintain on their own. It is also more likely that one spouse has become financially dependent on their partner in longer marriages.
Showing a Demonstrated Need
To receive alimony during divorce, you must also show a demonstrated need. There are many ways you can prove this aspect of your case, including:
- The financial affidavit: The financial affidavit is a mandatory document that shows proof of your income, assets, expenses, and debt.
- Document your expenses: The greater your expenses, the greater your need for alimony likely is. It is important to document all of your expenses, including utilities, your mortgage or rent payments, insurance, and basic necessities such as food.
- Lifestyle analysis: It is also important to collect evidence regarding the standard of living established during the marriage. This can justify that your request for alimony will help you maintain the same lifestyle.
- Income disparity: You can show that there is a disparity between your income and your spouse’s by proving unemployment, a lower earning capacity, or a gap in employment history.
Call Our Spousal Support Lawyer in Orlando Today
Alimony is one of the most contentious issues in divorce. Additionally, collecting the evidence you need to prove your case is not easy. At Anderson & Ferrin, P.A., our Orlando spousal support lawyer can help. We can advise on the different types of alimony available in Florida, the amount you may be able to receive, and prove the need for support so you obtain the best possible outcome. Call us now at 407-412-7041 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney and to get the legal help you need.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.08.html
